Ardnamurchan - AD/ Sherry Cask Release 2024, 5y, 50%, peated highlands single malt scotch whisky

The AD/ Sherry Cask Release 2024 is an exciting new addition to Ardnamurchan’s portfolio of artisanal Highland single malts. This 5-year-old expression combines the distillery’s signature peated style with the richness of sherry cask maturation. Bottled at 50% ABV, this young yet confident whisky is deeply influenced by the interplay between the smoky, maritime character of Ardnamurchan and the bold, fruit-driven sweetness of sherry-aged whisky. The result is a complex and dynamic single malt that exemplifies the distillery's commitment to quality, flavor, and sustainability.

With its Highland roots and peated profile, this whisky offers a unique bridge between the traditional smoky whiskies of Islay and the fruity, elegant expressions of the Highlands. Released as a limited edition, it’s a must-try for whisky enthusiasts eager to experience the innovative craftsmanship of Scotland’s most environmentally conscious distillery.

Key Features

1. Peated Profile:

   • Crafted with Ardnamurchan’s signature peated malt, delivering gentle smoke that is well-integrated with the whisky’s fruity and sherried notes.

2. Sherry Cask Maturation:

   • Aged in high-quality sherry casks, which impart layers of dried fruits, dark chocolate, and spice to the whisky.

3. Highland Origins:

   • Distilled and matured in the remote Ardnamurchan Peninsula, this whisky captures the rugged, maritime character of the Highlands.

4. Bottling Strength:

   • Bottled at 50% ABV, this whisky retains its full flavor intensity while offering a satisfying balance of richness and drinkability.

5. Sustainability Focus:

   • Ardnamurchan’s commitment to being Scotland’s greenest distillery shines through in this release. Their entire operation is carbon neutral and powered by renewable energy, making this whisky a sustainable choice for eco-conscious consumers.

Flavour Profile

Nose:

• A harmonious blend of gentle peat smoke, raisin sweetness, and toasted nuts.
• Notes of dried figs, orange zest, and a faint hint of brine evoke a coastal influence.

Palate:

• Rich and mouth-coating, with flavors of dark cherries, bitter chocolate, and toffee emerging first.
• The peat smoke is elegant and restrained, allowing the sherry influence to dominate with layers of clove, cinnamon, and blackcurrant jam.
• Subtle hints of sea salt, earthy malt, and roasted coffee add depth and complexity.

Finish:

• Long and warming, with lingering notes of smoke, spiced oak, and a delicate sweetness of caramelized sugar and dried apricots.

Food Pairing Suggestions

1. Dark Chocolate Truffles:

   • The rich, smoky, and fruity profile of the whisky pairs beautifully with the bitterness and creaminess of dark chocolate truffles, enhancing the sherry cask’s influence.

2. Grilled Lamb Chops with Rosemary:

   • The subtle herbal and smoky notes of the whisky complement the savory, charred flavors of lamb, while the whisky’s fruitiness balances the richness of the meat.

3. Smoked Gouda or Aged Manchego:

   • A creamy smoked Gouda or nutty aged Manchego pairs perfectly with the whisky’s peaty and sherried profile, creating a harmonious balance of smoke, salt, and sweetness.

Who Is It For?

• Peated Whisky Fans:

  • Perfect for those who enjoy smoky whiskies but seek a more balanced and restrained peat influence compared to heavier Islay malts.

• Sherry Cask Enthusiasts:

  • Ideal for drinkers who love the richness and complexity of sherry cask-aged whiskies and want to see how it harmonizes with a peated Highland malt.

• Eco-Conscious Whisky Lovers:

  • A great choice for whisky enthusiasts who want to support sustainable practices without compromising on flavor or quality.

• Adventurous Whisky Drinkers:

  • This whisky offers a unique profile that blends smoky, fruity, and coastal characters, making it a great pick for those exploring diverse flavor combinations.

About the Brand: Ardnamurchan Distillery

Ardnamurchan Distillery, founded in 2014, is one of Scotland’s youngest but most innovative whisky producers. Nestled in the remote Ardnamurchan Peninsula, the distillery is known for its commitment to sustainability and traditional craftsmanship. Ardnamurchan is Scotland’s first carbon-neutral distillery, powered entirely by renewable energy, including hydroelectric and biomass systems.

Their core philosophy revolves around producing high-quality, authentic Scotch whisky that respects the environment and honors the rich heritage of Highland whisky-making. Ardnamurchan embraces transparency, showcasing detailed traceability for each release, including cask types, barley origins, and production processes.

The distillery’s releases, including their peated and unpeated single malts, have quickly gained acclaim for their complexity, balance, and innovative cask maturation techniques. With the AD/ Sherry Cask Release 2024, Ardnamurchan continues to push the boundaries of what a Highland whisky can offer, blending sustainability with exceptional quality.